Couples Therapy
Couples Therapy
We thrive in connection. We are wired to seek, create, and maintain meaningful bonds with those we love. And when we find our special someone, we strive to enjoy life together for as long as possible.
Yet, even the strongest relationships might face some challenges along their journey.
You may grow apart, lose the spark, or have constant arguments about almost anything—an unanswered call, groceries, or the trash you forgot to take out. Maybe you suffered a breach of trust or an abusive interaction and are unsure how to move forward.
External stressors might also affect your foundation. Problems with children, other relatives, or friends, as well as financial strain and demanding jobs, can all create friction between couples. Or perhaps you are dealing with significant transitions such as getting married or having kids and are too overwhelmed to be present for each other.
Relationships Can Heal
No matter what your relationship is going through, couples therapy can help.
My name is Christian Holmes, and I’m an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT) Registration #120391 under the supervision of Mark W. Baker, Ph.D. Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist #MFT19289. My mission is to help couples, groups, teens, and adults achieve their full potential.
If you and your partner are struggling to meet each other where you are or are looking for ways to reinforce your connection, I’m here for you.
Let’s uncover what’s beneath the surface and plant the seeds for a healthier relationship.
Read on to learn more about how couples therapy works, or contact me to book a consultation today!
What Is Couples Therapy?
Couples therapy, commonly known as couples counseling, is a psychotherapy treatment designed to address issues in romantic relationships.
The specific goal of couples therapy is unique to the challenges, needs, and desires you are facing—as individuals and as a couple. But its purpose is to find ways to improve the relationship or, in some cases, end it in a healthy manner.
During couples therapy, you and your partner will meet with a therapist like myself to explore your concerns, work through your problems, and figure out the next steps.
My role as a therapist is not to pick sides or criticize you but to facilitate open and honest conversations, make evidence-based recommendations, and guide you throughout the whole process.
Keep in mind your relationship doesn’t need to be in full crisis for therapy to make a difference. Couples counseling can also help you learn more about each other and cultivate practical tools to grow and sustain your partnership.
Do We Need Couples Therapy?
Some couples seem to be wary of therapy because they don’t want to share their struggles with a third person or believe they are better off on their own. Sometimes one partner wants to give counseling a shot, while the other remains skeptical.
I understand seeking help and discussing private information with a stranger is not easy. But please know that as therapists, we are equipped to listen and offer science-backed advice in a confidential and judgment-free environment.
Common relationship issues addressed in couples therapy include:
- Breakup, separation, or divorce
- Breach of trust, lies, or infidelity
- Constant arguments or conflict
- Differences in beliefs, spirituality, or life vision
- Difficulties with children, family, friends, or colleagues
- Lack of emotional or physical intimacy (e.g., disconnection, sex problems)
- Major transitions or life events (e.g., marriage, pregnancy, moving, career changes)
- Poor communication habits
- Struggles with high-stakes jobs, home upkeep, or other stressors
If you and your partner are struggling with these relationship problems or want to gain valuable insight to bolster your relationship, couples therapy can support you. And if you are looking to part ways, therapy can also offer direction and a safe space to do so.
How Can Couples Therapy Help?
Recognizing Negative Cycles
Relationships often fall into negative dynamics as each partner deals with emotional disconnection, communication issues, lack of trust, or external stressors. For instance, you or your significant other may tend to avoid difficult discussions, react with anger, or blame one another. Therapy can help you become aware of these unhelpful interaction patterns, where they might be stemming from, and how they may be affecting your bond.
Identifying and Sharing Needs
Recognizing ineffective habits can open the door to deeper conversations about your emotions, thoughts, and desires. While in therapy, each partner will have the opportunity to identify and express their needs and the changes they’d like to see in the relationship. Your therapist will encourage you to listen and meet each other with empathy and compassion.
Applying New Skills
Therapy will also provide strategies and resources to foster a healthier relationship—reigniting your emotional and physical intimacy, improving communication, and building trust. This includes exercises and activities you can practice in sessions or at home. The goal is to replace old harmful dynamics with new effective behaviors that continue to transform and reinforce your partnership.
Couples Therapy With Christian Holmes
I’m an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT) Registration #120391 under the supervision of Mark W. Baker, Ph.D. Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist #MFT19289.
I offer couples therapy, as well as group and individual therapy to teens and adults in Pasadena, Glendale, San Fernando Valley, Beverly Hills, San Gabriel Valley, and nearby areas.
My couples counseling approach is based on Emotionally-Focused Therapy (also known as EFT), a modality centered on reorganizing emotional responses to develop a stronger relationship. I also have experience in other therapeutic orientations such as Psychodynamic Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Christian Counseling, and Mindfulness practices.
Whether you are facing difficulties with your loved one or searching for ways to grow together, I can help.
Need Support?
Let’s rebuild your relationship and get it back on track.
Contact me to book a consultation or schedule your first couples therapy session today.